Texas LTC for 18 to 20 Year Olds: What You Need to Know
June 3, 2023 2:17 amThe recent changes in Texas law concerning the License to Carry (LTC) have not only brought about new opportunities but have also sparked interest among 18 to 20 year olds who wish to carry a handgun. In this blog, we will present you with all the essential information necessary to understand the process of obtaining an LTC. We will delve into the federal court ruling that served as the catalyst for this change, and address frequently asked questions that will assist you in navigating through the application process. So without further ado, let’s dive right in!
Impact of Ruling: Texas LTC for 18 to 20 Year olds
The change in DPS policy was prompted by a recent federal district court ruling by Judge Mark Pittman in the case of Firearms Policy Coalition, Inc. et. al., v. Steven McCraw, et. al. Within his ruling, Judge Pittman declared the age-based restrictions unconstitutional, resulting in the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) no longer denying licenses to individuals aged 18 to 20. This landmark ruling represents a significant milestone, as it now grants young adults in Texas the opportunity to exercise their Second Amendment rights and pursue a License to Carry (LTC).
Understanding the Process
For 18 to 20-year-olds interested in obtaining an LTC, the application process is relatively simple. However, it does involve an additional review by the Department of Public Safety (DPS) to ensure that all statutory criteria are met. Despite this extra step, the application process remains the same as for individuals over 21. To begin, applicants must complete a handgun proficiency course that covers firearm safety and relevant state laws. Furthermore, they are required to submit their fingerprints for a thorough background check. DPS will carefully examine each application to assess eligibility and compliance with the necessary criteria.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for a Texas handgun license, Texans aged 18 (minimum age) and above must fulfill specific statutory requirements. These include not having any prior felony convictions or records of domestic violence. It is crucial to note that completing the mandatory training course and passing the background check are also compulsory. By meeting these criteria, 18 to 20-year-olds can now exercise their Second Amendment rights and obtain an LTC for carrying a handgun. This allows for more options when it comes to self-defense.
The LTC class breakdown:
The handgun proficiency course, required for all LTC applicants, is divided into three parts:
- Classroom Training: This is a required 4-6 hour course that can be taken in person or online. In-person classes offer direct interaction with instructors, while online courses provide flexibility. In Focus Training offers an approved Texas DPS online training course for those who prefer that option.
- Range Instruction: Our range instruction is an in-person session lasting from 1 to 2 hours. During this session, our trained instructors emphasize and discuss safety measures as paramount. You will have the opportunity to practice and refine your shooting skills at the shooting range under their guidance, gaining valuable hands-on experience.
- Texas requires applicants to demonstrate their shooting proficiency by completing a shooting course. This course requires shooting 20 rounds at 3 yards, 20 rounds at 7 yards, and 10 rounds at 15 yards. To pass, applicants must achieve a score of 70% or higher (175 out of a possible 250 points). You can obtain additional details on the scoring system from In Focus Training.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What are the LTC handgun eligibility criteria for an 18 to 20 year old?
Apart from the lifted age-based restrictions, it is important to note that you must also meet all other statutory eligibility criteria. These criteria include passing background checks, completing a handgun proficiency course, and having no prior felony convictions.
Are there any additional steps or processes needed to obtain an LTC in Texas?
18 to 20 year olds must complete a four-hour training course focused on firearm safety and laws relevant to their age group. This additional step is necessary before proceeding with the same application process as individuals who are over 21 years old.
Conclusion:
The recent changes in Texas law have opened doors for 18 to 20-year-olds to apply for a License to Carry (LTC) and exercise their Second Amendment rights. Consequently, it is essential to gain an understanding of the impact of the federal court ruling on this matter. Moreover, familiarizing yourself with the application process is crucial. If you’re an 18 to 20-year-old Texan looking to apply for an LTC or seeking more information, we highly recommend consulting with experts who can guide you through the process and address any questions you may have. By staying informed and exercising your rights responsibly, you can ensure both your safety and the preservation of your constitutional freedoms.
Texas Online LTC/CHL Course (DPS Approved)
In Focus Training Offers the approved Online Texas LTC Class. The class is four hours in length and is straightforward, culminating in an exam. Additionally, upon completion, we will promptly send you your LTC-101 certificate (classroom completion certificate). Once you have finished the exam, you can join us for the proficiency test. Following the successful completion of the face-to-face portion of the process, IFT will email your LTC-100 certificate to you.
Satisfied Customer
“Anthony is a great instructor. he took the time to make sure I was completely comfortable with the process and elaborated on every question or concern I had.”